There’s something inexplicably satisfying about the crunch of cauliflower fresh from the air fryer. It’s like that moment when you find a $20 bill in your old coat pocket—unexpected and delightful! Recently, I stumbled upon these air fryer cauliflower recipes, and I couldn’t help but get a bit obsessed.
Who would’ve guessed that this humble veggie, once relegated to the side dish status, could transform into such a versatile star? One minute it’s crispy, the next it’s tender, always holding onto its sneaky ability to absorb flavors like a sponge. It’s like it’s putting on a little show—ta-da!
And oh, the possibilities! From spicy buffalo bites to cheesy, garlicky goodness, each bite feels like a new adventure. Have you ever felt that?
Like you’re discovering something for the first time, even though it’s been right there all along? Anyway, give these a whirl and see if they don’t become your new obsession too.
Steps
- Begin by cutting the cauliflower into florets after removing the leaves and washing the head. Pat the cauliflower dry completely with a towel.
- Transfer the cauliflower florets to a bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle with turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring an even coat by tossing the florets.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and place the seasoned cauliflower inside. Roast for about 15 minutes, making sure to flip them every 3 minutes for even cooking.
- Monitor the cauliflower closely to prevent burning, and shake the air fryer basket every 3 minutes to ensure all sides are cooked evenly.
- Once the cauliflower is crispy and cooked through, remove it from the air fryer. Serve on a plate and enjoy it warm or cold, optionally with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 small cauliflower head, cut into florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Nutritional Values
Calories: 196kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 1244mg | Potassium: 792mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 492IU | Vitamin C: 128mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- Can I cook cauliflower in the oven if I don’t have an Air Fryer?
- Absolutely! If you don’t own an Air Fryer, you can roast the cauliflower in the oven. Just follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions, adjusting the time as needed for your oven.
- Are the leaves and stems of cauliflower edible?
- Yes, both the leaves and stems of cauliflower are edible. The leaves can be roasted and served as a side, while the stems can be frozen for later use in smoothies, soups, stir-fry, or stews.
- How can I season cauliflower for air frying?
- After cutting the cauliflower into florets, drizzle them with olive oil and season with spices like turmeric, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also use homemade seasonings like fajita or taco seasoning for added flavor.
- Is it possible to air fry cauliflower without using oil?
- Yes, you can air fry cauliflower without oil. While it may result in a slightly different texture, it will still be delicious. To prevent sticking, consider using air fryer parchment paper liners.
- Can I use frozen cauliflower florets for this recipe?
- You can use frozen cauliflower florets, but ensure they are completely thawed before roasting. This helps avoid excess moisture, which can lead to a mushy texture.
Tips
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep a close watch on the cauliflower while air frying, as it can burn quickly. Check every 3 minutes and shake the basket to ensure even roasting.
- Try Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with various seasonings like curry powder, cumin, or chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
- Oil-Free Alternative: If you prefer to avoid oil, you can still achieve delicious results by using air fryer parchment paper liners to prevent sticking.
- Thaw Frozen Cauliflower: When using frozen cauliflower florets, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking to prevent a mushy texture.
Equipment
- Air Fryer – Essential for making the crispy Air Fryer cauliflower.
- Chef’s Knife – Important for cutting the cauliflower into florets.
- Air Fryer Parchment Paper Liners – Useful for those who want an oil-free option and easy cleanup.
